Our Psychologists

Learn about Gearing Up Psychology, a trusted team of Maitland psychologists providing evidence-based mental health care. We are compassionate, professional, and offer community-focused support.

Chris Brown

Hi, I’m Chris. I am the director of Gearing Up Psychology and have extensive experience in adopting strength based Psychological practices in the following areas:
– Psychological Assessment and treatment for people with symptoms of a Mental Illness
– Neurodiversity affirming assessment and support
– Neuropsychological assessment
– Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
– Mindfulness integrated CBT (MiCBT)
– Psychological Assessment and Intervention for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability
– The Criminal Justice System
– Motivational Interviewing
– Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
– Assessment and Therapy for Individuals with a Personality Disorder
– Running of drumming groups

Mikaylee Gowdy

Mikaylee Gowdy

Hi, I’m Mikaylee. I have experience working with children and young persons with a range of presentations and enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to achieve their goals. I am passionate about providing trauma informed, neurodiversity affirming support and utilise a strengths based, person centred therapeutic approach. I am also interested in working with adults experiencing anxiety and depression.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time reading, watching true crime documentaries, and listening to live music.

Brooke Gelder

Mikaylee Gowdy

I am a psychologist with 15 years of experience in mental health, primarily in private hospital settings. I work with adults facing a wide range of concerns, with particular experience in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and trauma.

As a therapist, I strive to create a warm and approachable environment where you feel heard and understood. I take the time to get to know you and your goals, and together, we determine a therapeutic approach that best suits your needs.

I am trained in several evidence-based approaches, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).

I am available for appointments on Tuesdays and look forward to supporting you on your journey.

Morgan Banks

Mikaylee Gowdy
I am a registered psychologist who values creating a respectful, and inclusive space for all my clients where people can feel safe, even when exploring deeply personal experiences. I take a relaxed approach to therapy focusing on connection and validation while drawing on evidence-based practices.

I’m passionate about helping my clients and their families engage in safer, healthier relationships and supporting clients who have experienced trauma.

I also welcome clients with more complex or non-traditional presentations, and I’m committed to working with those who may not always feel comfortable in typical therapeutic settings.

If you’re looking for a space to be heard, understood, and supported without judgment – I’m here to help

Kirsten Copas

Mikaylee Gowdy
I am a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with adults and adolescents facing mental health challenges including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment to major life changes, stress, trauma, and chronic health conditions.

I provide an authentic, collaborative space, working alongside you as you reach your goals. I draw on evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I aim to ensure you feel supported, while you build insight and move towards meaningful change.

Beatrix Napier

Beatrix Napier

I’m a registered psychologist with AHPRA, and I take a relationship-based approach to therapy, focusing on helping individuals build a life that feels meaningful and worth living. I work with children (aged 7 and up), young people, adults, and families across a wide range of mental health presentations.

I offer psychological therapy for those experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as for children with learning and behavioural difficulties and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ASD and ADHD. I also support people navigating work stress, relationship challenges, grief, and loss.

My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, and I tailor each therapeutic experience to suit the unique needs of the individual. Depending on what’s most helpful, I draw from a range of modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Schema Therapy.

Amy Bartolacci

Amy Bartolacci

Hi, I’m Amy. I am a registered psychologist with experience working with children, adolescents and adults across a wide range of presentations. I offer both therapy and assessment, including cognitive, ADHD and specific learning disorder assessments.

I draw on evidence-based approaches and enjoy supporting clients to develop practical strategies they can use in everyday life. My style is warm, client-centred and affirming, with a focus on helping people feel safe, understood and empowered to work toward their goals.

When I’m not at work, I love food, sunshine and bright colours. I enjoy reading, cooking and building Lego, and I have a keen appreciation for art, architecture and design.